Appendix H 

Selected Label Restrictions and Instructions for the Gas Cartridges 

Dexol Gopher Gasser (EPA Reg. No. 192-49) 

Target organisms: gophers and ground squirrels 

Use sites: lawns, golf courses, gardens, rangeland 

FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY 

Environmental Hazards 

This product is highly toxic to wildlife. Check all burrows for signs of non-target species. If 

present, do not treat burrows. 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE 

USE RESTRICTIONS 

This product is to be used to control pocket gophers in lawns, golf courses and gardens and 

controls ground squirrels in lawns, golf courses and rangeland. The toxic gasses produced will 

travel through unplugged burrow systems to kill the pests. FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY. Do not 

use under buildings, homes, porches, or any structure due to possible fire hazard. Dexol Gopher 

Gasser will not control tree squirrels. 

In order for gas-producing cartridges to be effective on the pest species, a sufficient 

concentration of gas must be retained in the burrow system over a sufficient period of time. 

Damp soil tends to retain toxic gasses within a burrow system better than dryer soil and, 

therefore, may enhance the effectiveness of this product Use under conditions of extremely dry 

soil and vegetation also increases the risk of starting brush fires. 

POCKET GOPHER 

Burrow Preparation - For best results with any toxic gas, the product should be released in the 

main runways in a sufficient number of locations to ensure that a lethal concentration of gas 

reaches the pocket gopher. 

Pocket gopher burrow systems usually consist of a main burrow 4-20” (10-50cm) below the 

ground surface and variable numbers of lateral burrows off of the main underground runway. 

Deeper branches off of the main runway are used as nests and for food caches. Burrow diameter 

ranges from 2-5” (5-12cm) and varies with the size of species. 

Locate a characteristic fan-shaped soil mound which has sights of recent activity (e.g., recently 

excavated soil) at their plugged entrances. Remove soil plug from center of each burrow 

entrance. Return the next day to see if the burrow opening has been re-plugged, indicating active 

use by a pocket gopher. DO NOT treat burrows that remained unplugged. 

Find the horseshoe-shaped depression on one side of the plugged mound. Locate the main 

runway by probing the ground 15-18” (38-46 cm) from the mound, starting on the same side as 
the depression. The main runway has been located when friction on the probe is released and it 

falls into the runway. Using a shovel or trowel, dig down to the main runway, taking care not to 

block it with soil. 

Burrow treatment — Before Lighting the Fuse: Insure the cartridge will pass easily into opening 

and make sure that enough material is on hand to close burrows. 

To light fuse, hold Dexol Gopher Gasser cartridge away from your body and ignite tip of fuse 

with a match or lighter with a small flame. The minimum fuse burn time is 5 seconds when it is 

lit at the tip. DO NOT INHALE TOXIC FUMES. When it is lit, carefully insert the cartridge, 

fuse-end first, into one side of the open runway. Immediately close the opening with a board or 

shovel of sod. Tamp lightly with soil to prevent gases from escaping. If smoke is seen escaping 

from other holes, plug them firmly with soil. Treat all active mounds. One cartridge placed in the 

end of a runway should be sufficient. One or more additional cartridges must be used if treatment 

takes place in the middle of runway or if a runway is T- shaped”. Otherwise, there is a 50% 

chance that the pocket gopher will be on the untreated side of the plugged runway. Within 5 days 

of treatment, check area for appearance of fresh mounds which could be the work of survivors or 

gophers that have moved into the treated area. Retreat all systems with evidence of new pocket 

gopher activity. 

GROUND SQUIRRELS 

Ground squirrel burrow design varies with the species, soil type, habitat, and climate. Burrows 

may be as much as 9’ deep (nearly 3 m). Burrow diameter varies with the body size of the 

species (and other factors) and may range from 2-10” (2-25cm). 

It is preferable to treat ground squirrel burrows during the spring breeding season. Observe the 

area in early morning before treating burrows to confirm that ground squirrels are actively using 

the site. DO NOT treat unoccupied burrows. DO NOT treat burrows with evidence that a snake 

or weasel has entered in pursuit of prey. 

Collect plenty of dirt and other material for closing burrow opening. Make sure openings are 

large enough for easy insertion of lit cartridge. Treat each burrow opening by lighting fuse 

(minimum fuse time = 5 seconds) and inserting cartridge into hole fuse-end first. Cover hole 

immediately, taking care not to smother cartridge with loose dirt. Immediately cover all other 

openings from which gas escapes. Proceed to the next closest open burrow and treat it in the 

same manner. Within 5 days of treatment, check area for appearance of live ground squirrels or 

opened burrow systems which could be the work of survivors or squirrels that have moved into 

the treated area. Retreat all systems with evidence of residual activity. 

ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS 

General Considerations 

NOTICE: It is a Federal offense to use any pesticide in a manner that results in the death of a 

member of an endangered species. The use of this product may pose a hazard to Federally 

designated endangered/threatened species. 
Suggested measures to protect endangered species in your county may exist in the EPA “Interim 

Measures” pamphlet. You may call EPA’s Endangered Species Hotline, 1-800447-3813, to find 

out if an “Interim Measures” pamphlet exists for your county and have one sent to you. You can 

also consult you local county extension office or pesticide state lead agency to determine 

whether they have imposed any requirements in your area to protect endangered and threatened 

species. 

1. Black-Footed Ferret: Do not use this product in the range of the Black-Footed Ferret. Contact 

the nearest U.S Fish and Wildlife Service Office (Endangered Species Specialist) before the 

product is used. They will arrange for a survey of the proposed use site. 

2. Utah Prairie Dog: Do not use this product in the range of the Utah Prairie Dog, which occurs 

in Utah. 

3. San Joaquin Kit Fox: This pesticide should not be used within 1 mile of the active dens of the 

San Joaquin Kit Fox in the following California counties: Kern, Kings, Fresno, San Luis Obispo. 

Merced, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Tulare and San Benito. Prior to use, contact the 

California Department of Fish and Game for recommendations. 

4. Blunt-Nosed Leopard Lizard: This pesticide should not be used in the range of the BluntNosed Leopard Lizard in the following California Counties: Kern, Fresno, Kings, Madera, 

Merced and Tulare. Prior to use, contact the California Department of Fish and Game for 

recommendations. 

5. Eastern Indigo Snake: Do not use this product in the range of the Eastern Indigo Snake in the 

following states: Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. 

6. Desert Tortoise: This pesticide should not be used in the critical habitat of the Beaver Dam 

slope population of the Desert Tortoise in Utah. This comprises an area extending from the 

southwest facing slope of the Beaver Dam Mountains, across Highway 91, west along the 

Arizona border and 10 miles to the Nevada Border. 

Gas Cartridge (EPA Reg. No. 56228-2) 

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS 

This product is highly toxic to wildlife. Check all burrows for signs of nontarget species. If 

present, do not treat burrows. 

ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS 

General Considerations 

NOTICE: It is a Federal offense to use any pesticide in a manner that results in the death of a 

member of an endangered species. 

The killing of a member of an endangered species due to the use of gas cartridges may result in a 

fine and/or imprisonment under the Endangered Species Act. All users of this product must 

determine whether endangered species are known to occur or might occur in the intended use 

areas. 

Consult the nearest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regional office or the appropriate State agency 

for current information on habitats occupied by endangered species. 
Use this product according to the enclosed “Endangered Species Considerations” printed on the 

back of the label attached to each cartridge, to protect endangered species. 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE 

it is a violation of Federal Law to use this product in a manner inconsistent 

with its labeling. 

USE RESTRICTIONS 

This product may be used to control woodchucks (Marmota monax), yellow- bellied marmots 

(M. flaviventris), ground squirrels (Spermophilus spp.), black- tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys 

Iudovicianus), whitetailed prairie dogs (L. leucurus), and Gunnison prairie dogs (C. gunnisoni) in 

open fields, non-crop areas, rangelands, reforested areas, lawns and golf courses. This product 

may only be used underground in burrow systems. It may not be used to fumigate buildings or 

other man-made structures. Do not use in or under buildings or near flammable material, or when 

either the soil or the vegetation in the area to be treated are in extremely dry conditions. USE 

THIS PRODUCT ONLY IN BURROW SYSTEMS KNOWN TO BE IN ACTIVE USE BY 

THE TARGET SPECIES. 

APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: GENERAL PROCEDURES 

Locate and plug all entrances to the burrow system except the entrance selected for treatment. 

Obtain material needed to plug the entrance once the cartridge is applied. 

APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: TARGET-SPECIFIC DIRECTIONS 

Woodchucks and yellow-bellied marmots: Consult state wildlife agency before using this 

product for woodchuck or marmot control. Examine burrows to be sure that they are in active 

use by woodchucks or rockchucks. Burrows are 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches) in diameter. 

Active burrows have a mound of fresh soil at the main entrance and trails leading to feeding 

areas. Do not gas if nontarget species are observed entering or using the burrow. It is preferable 

to control woodchucks or marmots in February or March before young are born and leave 

burrows. Fewer nontarget species use the burrows in the spring. Use extra caution when treating 

woodchuck or marmot burrows in October through January when burrows may be inhabited by 

cottontail rabbits. DO NOT treat unoccupied burrows. 

Locate all burrow entrances if possible. Select one for treatment and close all others with rock 

and soil. Light fuse and insert cartridge fuse-end first as far as possible into burrows. 

Immediately cover opening with rock and soil, being careful not to smother cartridge. 

_______________________ 

Ground squirrels and Prairie Dogs: Ground squirrel burrow design varies with the species, soil 

type, habitat, and climate. Burrows may be as deep as 3 m (9 feet). Diameter varies with the 

body size of the species and may range from 5 to 25 cm (2 to 10 inches). Prairie dog burrows 

have large holes and cone-shaped mounds and may extend to 5 m (15 feet) below the surface. It 

is preferable to treat burrows of either genus during the spring breeding season. Observe the area 

in early morning and late evening during 24 hours before treating burrows to confirm that prairie 
dogs or ground squirrels are actively using the site. DO NOT treat unoccupied burrows. DO 

NOT treat burrows with evidence that a snake or weasel has entered in pursuit of prey. 

Burrowing owls occasionally use prairie dog burrows for breeding from May through July. 

Check with the local wildlife agency before using this product to determine the possible presence 

of burrowing owls in the area to be treated and inspect the colony for signs of burrowing owls. 

The presence of owls is indicated by the presence of guano or shredded cow and horse dung 

around the burrow from May through mid-June. If burrowing owls are known or suspected to be 

present in a colony, DO NOT use the gas cartridge in the colony from May to July. 

Collect soil and other material to close burrow openings. Treat each burrow opening by lighting 

fuse and inserting cartridge into burrow, fuse end first (make sure burrow is large enough for 

easy insertion of cartridge before lighting fuse). Cover burrow immediately, taking care not to 

smother cartridge with loose soil. Immediately cover all nearby cracks in soil or openings from 

which smoke escapes. Proceed to nearest open burrow and follow same procedure. 

Large Gas Cartridge (EPA Reg. No. 56228-21) 

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS 

This product is highly toxic to wildlife. Check all burrows for signs of nontarget species. If 

present, do not treat burrows. 

ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS 

General Considerations 

NOTICE: It is a Federal offense to use any pesticide in a manner that results in the death of a 

member of an endangered species. 

The killing of a member of an endangered species due to the use of gas cartridges may result in a 

fine and/or imprisonment under the Endangered Species Act. All users of this product must 

determine whether endangered species are known to occur or might occur in the intended use 

areas. 

Consult the nearest U.S. Fish and Wildlife regional office or the appropriate State agency for 

current information on habitats occupied by endangered species. 

Use this product according to the specific endangered species considerations on the carton insert. 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE 

It is a violation of Federal Law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. 

USE RESTRICTIONS: 

For control of coyotes (Canis latrans), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes fulva) and striped skunks 

(Mephitis mephitis) in dens only on rangelands, crop and non-crop areas. Do not use near 

flammable material or inside buildings. USE ONLY IN DENS INACTIVE USE BY THE 

TARGET SPECIES. 
DEN SELECTION: 

COYOTES: First select a den in active use by coyotes for treatment. Coyote dens are normally 

found in steep embankments or draws and may be concealed in brush. These dens can easily be 

distinguished from nontarget animal dens (such as badger and fox) by the large size of the den 

and coyote sign around its entrance. Coyote dens range in size from 9 to 12 inches in width and 

12 to 18 inches in height. Typical coyote sign around the entrance includes tracks of the adults 

before the pups are active outside the den. After the pups become active, their tracks will also be 

present as well as their scat and the vegetation around the den will be laid flat due to the pups’ 

activity. Active dens may be identified by these signs being fresh and the pups may sometimes 

be heard upon approaching the entrance. DO NOT use unless the den is occupied by coyotes. 

RED FOXES: Determine the den location of particular foxes which are preying on livestock or 

causing other damage. Such predation occurs during rearing of kits. Fox tracks and drag marks 

of prey lead to the den, which is usually located in mixed farmlands and woodlots, in the brushy 

fringe of forests, or along marshes or tilled fields. The dens will be marked by remains of prey in 

addition to tracks and observations. Active dens may be identified by these signs being fresh and 

the kits may sometimes be heard upon approaching the entrance. 

SKUNKS: Track individual skunks creating health or safety hazards or depredating endangered 

or threatened species. Treat a den which the target skunk has entered based on tracking evidence. 

Do not treat dens under inhabited structures or buildings where toxic gasses could reach humans, 

pets, or domestic animals including livestock. 

APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: 

Make sure cartridge will pass easily into opening. Close any openings to den other than the one 

to be treated. Obtain material to plug entrance. Then, with a nail at least 1/8 inch in diameter, 

puncture cap at end of cartridge at points marked. Insert fuse in one of the center holes. Ensure 

that there is a minimum of 3 inches of exposed fuse. Hold cartridge away from face and body, 

then light. 

NOTE: The minimum burn time for these fuses is 5 seconds. 

Place cartridge, fuse-end first, as far into the burrow as possible. Close entrance to burrow 

immediately. If burrow is steep, contents of cartridge may flow out of lighted end. If so, place 

cartridge as deep in burrow as possible with fuse-end up, light, and close burrow. 

ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS CARTON INSERT 

LARGE GAS CARTRIDGE - EPA REG. NO. 56228-21 

Use of this product is subject to limitations set forth below for the purpose of protecting 

endangered species, 

Fresno kangaroo rat (Dipodomys nitratoides exilis) in Fresno and Merced Counties, California; 
Giant kangaroo rat (D. ingens) in Merced, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Kern, San Luis Obispo, and 

Santa Barbara Counties, California; 

Stephen’s kangaroo rat (D. stephensi) in Riverside, San Diego, and San Bernardino Counties, 

California; 

Tipton kangaroo rat (D. n. nitratoides) in Kings, Tulare, Kern and Fresno Counties, California; 

Point Arena mountain beaver (Aplodontia rufa nigra) in Mendocino County, California; 

San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica), as determined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service in Alameda, Contra Costa, Fresno, Kern, Kings, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, San 

Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Stanislaus or Tulare Counties, California; 

Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) in Arizona, southern California, and southern Utah. 

Use of this product within the occupied habitats of the organisms listed above is limited to 

qualified individuals who have been trained to distinguish dens and burrows of target species 

from those of nontarget species. Such individuals may be wildlife biologists, certified 

applicators, representatives of California State or Federal agencies, or agents of county 

agricultural offices or university extension services. 

Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) 

To limit risks to the black-footed ferret and to avoid destruction of its prey base, do not use this 

product within 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) of any prairie dog town the colony is an isolated blacktailed prairie dog town less than 80 acres in size or an isolated white-tailed or Gunnison prairie 

dog town less than 200 acres in size, or unless the town has been appropriately surveyed, using 

methods acceptable to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and found not to contain blackfooted ferrets and found by the FWS not to be a suitable site for ferret reintroductions. 

Hualapi Mexican vole (M. Mexicanus hualapalensis) in Mohave County, Arizona; 

Morro Bay kangaroo rat (D. heermanni morroensis) in San Luis Obispo County, California; 

Utah prairie dog (Cynomys parvidens) in Garfield, Iron, Kane, Piute, Sevier and Wayne 

Counties, Utah; 

Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard (Uma inornata) in the Coachella Valley area of southern 

California; 

Island night lizard (Xantusia riversiana) on Santa Barbara, San Clemente and San Nicolas 

Islands, California. 

Do not use this product within the occupied habitats of the above endangered animals. 

Blunt-nosed leopard lizard (Gambelia slius) 
Do not use this product within the occupied habitat of the blunt-nosed leopard lizard in Fresno, 

Kern, Kings, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, and 

Stanislaus Counties, California, from October 1 to April 15 unless a specific blunt-nosed leopard 

lizard protection program for this period is approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and 

fully implemented. Use of this product in occupied habitat of this species from April 15 through 

September 30 is limited to daylight hours when air temperatures are 77-95 degrees Farenheit (20- 

30 degrees Celsius). 

San Francisco garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia) 

Do not use this product within the occupied habitat of the San Francisco garter snake in San 

Mateo, San Francisco, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz Counties, California from November 1 to 

March 30 a specific San Francisco garter snake protection program for this period is approved by 

the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and fully implemented. Use of this product in occupied 

habitat of this species under such approved programs or from April 1 through October 31 is 

limited to qualified individuals who have been trained to distinguish dens and burrows of target 

species from those of nontarget species. Such individuals may be wildlife biologists, certified 

applicators, representatives of California State or Federal agencies, or agents of county 

agricultural offices or university extension offices. 

Eastern indigo snake (Drymarchan corals couperi) 

Do not use this product within habitat types and locales known to support the Eastern indigo 

snake throughout Florida and the coastal plain of Georgia. 

Gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) 

Do not use this product in or adjacent to known gopher tortoise occupied habitat west of the 

Mobile and Tombigbee Rivers in Alabama. 

Red Wolf (Canis rufus); 

Gray Wolf (Canis lupus). 

Unless authorized by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, DO NOT use in areas where the above 

endangered species may have dens. 

Revenge Rodent Smoke Bomb (EPA Reg. No. 9086-4) 

Kills: Gophers, Woodchucks, Rats, Skunks and Ground Squirrels 

This product may be used on lawns, parks, golf courses, rangeland, reforested areas, open fields, 

meadows, and non-crop areas. 

Environmental Hazards 

This product is highly toxic to wildlife. Check all burrows for signs of nontarget species. If 

present, do not treat burrows. See “Insert” for “Endangered Species Considerations” text. 
DIRECTIONS FOR USE AND ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE 

It is a violation of Federal Law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. 

USE RESTRICTIONS: 

This product may be used to control pocket gophers, woodchucks, Norway rats, skunks, and 

ground squirrels on lawns, parks, golf courses, rangeland, reforested areas, open fields, 

meadows, and non-crop areas. Not for use in North Carolina. This product may only be used 

underground in burrow systems. It may not be used to fumigate buildings, other man-made 

structures, or burrows which may lead into such structures. Use only for the sites, pest, and 

application methods described on this labeling. 

Do not use this product anywhere where use of gas cartridges is prohibited by local ordinances. 

Do not use this product near flammable, materials or when either the soil or the vegetation in the 

area to be treated are in extremely dry conditions. 

USE THIS PRODUCT ONLY IN BURROW SYSTEMS KNOWN TO BE IN ACTIVE USE 

BY THE TARGET SPECIES. Do not apply cartridges to burrows or dens know or believed to 

contain nontarget vertebrate animals. Before using product, read the entire label including the 

insert entitled “ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS.” 

APPLICATION DIRECTIONS: 

General Procedures 

Refer to specific directions for the type of animal to be controlled. These directions indicate how 

to determine whether burrow systems are active and how to treat such systems. Carefully 

observe areas to be treated. Apply cartridges only to burrow systems or dens currently being used 

by target species. 

Before using this product, follow these steps: 

1. Read and understand the specific directions for the type of animal that you intend to control. 

2. Collect amounts of soil, rocks, and other noncombustible materials sufficient for closing 

burrow systems. 

3. Test to make sure that holes into which cartridges are to be placed are large enough for easy, 

fuse-end-first insertion. 

4. Assume ã’position that will permit you to light fuse and promptly insert cartridge into burrow. 

Hold cartridge away from body with fuse end pointed outward. Light fuse. DO NOT INHALE 

TOXIC FUMES. Place cartridge, fuse-end first, as far into the burrow as possible. 

NOTE: The minimum fuse time is 5 seconds. 

5. Insert cartridges into burrow immediately after fuse is lit. Do not hold burning cartridges in 

your hand. Do not use cartridges where vegetation is dry and likely to catch fire. 

6. Immediately close treated entrance to burrow system. Cover all holes and cracks in soil where 

smoke escapes. 
Note: The effectiveness of this product will be limited under conditions of dry or porous soil 

which permit the escape of toxic gases from treated burrow. 

Target-Specific Application Directions 

WOODCHUCKS: Consult State wildlife agency before using this product to control 

woodchucks. Examine burrows to be sure that they are in active use by woodchucks. Woodchuck 

burrows are roughly 10-12 inches in diameter. Active burrows have a mound of fresh soil at the 

main entrance and trails leading to feeding areas. Do not use this product if nontarget species are 

observed entering or using the burrow. It is preferable to control woodchucks in February or 

March before young are born and leave the burrows. Fewer nontarget species use the burrows in 

the early Spring. Use extra caution when treating woodchuck burrows in October through 

January when the systems may be occupied by cottontail rabbits. 

Locate all burrow entrances if possible. Select one for treatment and close all others with rocks 

and soil, being careful not to smother cartridge. Follow “General Procedures” indicated above. 

Light fuse and insert cartridge fuse-end-first as far as possible into burrow. Immediately cover 

treated opening with rock and soil, being careful not to smother the cartridge. 

If initial treatment fails, retreat with two cartridges. 

POCKET GOPHERS: Pocket gopher burrow systems usually consist of a main burrow 4-20” 

(10-50 cm) below the ground surface and variable numbers of lateral burrows off of the main 

underground runway. Deeper branches off of the main runway are used as nests and for food 

caches. Burrow diameter ranges from 2-5” (5-12 cm) and varies with the size of the species. 

Locate characteristic fan-shaped soil mounds which have signs of recent pocket gopher activity 

(e.g., recently excavated soil) at their plugged entrances. Remove soil plug from the center of 

each burrow entrance. Return the next day to see if the burrow opening has been replugged, 

indicating active use by a pocket gopher. DO NOT treat burrows that remain unplugged. 

Find the horseshow-shaped depression on one side of the mound. Locate the main runway by 

probing the ground 15-18” from the mound, staffing on the same side as the depression. The 

main runway has been located when the probe meets little or no resistance. Using a shovel or 

trowel, dig down to the main runway, taking care not to block it with soil. 

Make sure that cartridge will pass easily into opening and that enough material is on hand to 

close burrows before lighting cartridge. 

Follow “General Procedures” indicated above. Light fuse and carefully insert cartridge, fuse-end 

first, into one side of the open runway. Immediately close the opening with dirt or damp sod. If 

smoke is seen escaping from other holes, plug them firmly with soil. Treat all active mounds. 

One cartridge placed in the end of a runway should be sufficient. One or more additional 

cartridges must be used if treatment takes place in the middle of a runway or if a runway is “Tshaped”. Otherwise, there is a 50% chance that the pocket gopher will be on the untreated side of 

the plugged runway. 

Within 5 days of treatment, check area for appearance of fresh mounds which could be the work 

of survivors or gophers that have moved into the treated area. Retreat all systems with evidence 

of new pocket gopher activity. 
GROUND SQUIRRELS: Ground squirrel burrow designs vary with the species, soil type, 

habitat, and climate. Burrows may be as much as 9’ deep. Burrow diameter varies with the body 

size of the species (and other factors) and may range from 2-10”. 

It is preferable to treat ground squirrel burrows during the Spring breeding season. Observe, the 

area in early morning before treating burrows to confirm that ground squirrels are actively using 

the site. DO NOT treat unoccupied burrows. DO NOT treat burrows with evidence that a snake 

or weasel has entered in pursuit of prey. 

Follow “General Procedures” indicated above. Collect plenty of dirt and other material for 

closing burrow openings. Make sure openings are large enough for easy insertion of lit cartridge. 

Light fuse and carefully insert cartridge, fuse-end first, into the burrow entrance. Cover hole 

immediately, taking care not to smother cartridge with loose dirt. Immediately cover all other 

openings from which gas escapes. Proceed to the next closest open burrow and treat it in’ the 

same manner. 

Within 5 days of treatment, check area for appearance of live ground squirrels or opened burrow 

systems which could be the work of survivors or squirrels that have moved into the treated area. 

Retreat all systems with evidence of residual activity. If initial treatment fails, retreat with two 

cartridges. 

NORWAY RATS: Use this product only where burrows are isolated from homes, barns, and all 

other man-made structures. DO NOT USE inside buildings or anywhere where gases could enter 

buildings. Do not use in burrow systems made in loose or dry soil or in any flammable substrate. 

Follow “General Procedures” indicated above. Collect plenty of dirt and other materials, for 

closing burrow openings. Treat each burrow by lighting fuse and inserting cartridge, fuse-end 

first, into hole. Cover hole immediately, taking care not to smother cartridge with loose dirt. 

Immediately cover all other openings from which gas escapes. Proceed to next closest burrow 

and treat as above. 

SKUNKS: Track individual skunks to dens. Treat dens for which the tracking evidence indicates 

that skunks have entered. Do not treat dens under structures or buildings. Do not use where toxic 

gases could reach humans, pets, or domestic animals including wildlife. 

Make sure cartridge will pass easily onto opening. Close all known openings to den other than 

the one to be treated. Obtain material to plug entrance. 

Follow “General Procedures” indicated above. Light fuse and carefully insert cartridge, fuse-end 

first, as far as possible into the den entrance. Close hole immediately, taking care not to smother 

cartridge with loose dirt. Immediately cover all other openings from which gas escapes. (If den 

entrance is steep, modified procedures may be needed to keep the contents of the cartridge from 

flowing out of the burning end. Place cartridge as deep as possible in entrance with funs end 

facing away but elevated relative to the rest of cartridge. Light cartridge in place and 

immediately close opening.) 
If initial treatment fails, retreat with two cartridges. 

ENDANGERED SPECIES CONSIDERATIONS 

I. General Considerations 

NOTICE: It is a Federal offense to use any pesticide in a manner that results in the death of a 

member of an endangered species. The use of this product may pose a hazard to Federally 

designated endangered/threatened species. 

To protect endangered species, use this product according to the “Endangered Species 

Considerations” section of the enclosed “Pamphlet Insert” and the guidance in the following 

paragraph. 

Suggested measures to protect endangered species in your county may exist in an EPA “Interim 

Measures” pamphlet. You may call EPA’s Endangered Species Hotline, 1-800-447-3813, to fmd 

out if any “Interim Measures” pamphlet exists for you county and have one sent to you. You can 

also consult your local county extension office or pesticide state lead agency to determine 

whether they have imposed any requirements in your area to protect endangered and threatened 

species. 

II. Specific Considerations 

1: Black-Footed Ferret: Do not use this product in the range of the Black-footed ferret. Contact 

the nearest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office, Endangered Species Specialist, before the 

product is used. They will arrange for a survey of the proposed use site. 

2. Utah Prairie Dog: Do not use this product in the range of the Utah Prairie Dog. (Utah) 

3. San Joaquin Kit Fox: This pesticide should not be used within one mile of active dens of the 

San Jóaquin kit fox in the following California counties: Kern, Kings, Fresno, San Luis Obispo, 

Merced, Monterey, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Tulare and San Denito. Prior to use, contact the 

California Department of Fish and Game for recommendations. 

4. Blunt-Nosed Leopard Lizard: This pesticide should not be used in the range of the Bluntnosed leopard lizard in the following California counties: Kern, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced 

and Tulare. Prior to use, contact the California Department of Fish and Game for 

recommendations. 

5. Easter Indigo Snake: Do not use this product in the range of the Eastern Indigo snake in the 

following states: Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. 

6. Desert Tortoise: This pesticide should not be used in the critical habitat of the Beaver Dam 

slope population of the Desert tortoise in Utah. This comprises an area extending from the 

southwest-facing slope of the Beaver Dam mountains, across Highway 91, west along the 

Arizona border and 10 miles to the Nevada border. 

SMOKE’em (EPA Reg. No. 358-137; based on an old available label 358-137) 

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS 
Gases produced by this product are highly toxic to wildlife Check all burrows for signs of 

nontargets. If present, do not treat burrows. See enclosed “Endangered Species Considerations” 

below. 

Woodchucks (open fields, non.crop areas). Locate all entrances. Select one for use and close all 

other entrances with rock and dirt. Light fuse, insert fuse-end first. Cover with rock and dirt 

being careful not lo smother the cartridge with dirt. Consult state game laws before using this 

product for woodchuck control. 

Ground Squirrels (rangeland): Collect plenty of dirt and other material for closing burrow 

openings. 

Treat each burrow opening by lighting fuse and inserting cartridge fuse-end first into hole. 

(Make sure hole is large enough for easy insertion before lighting fuse.) Cover hole immediately, 

taking care not to smother cartridge with loose dirt. Immediately, cover all openings from which 

gas escapes. Proceed to the next closest open burrow and treat as above. 

Endangered Species Considerations 

Black-Footed Ferret: 

“Do not use this product in the range of the Black-footed ferret. Contact the nearest U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service Office (Endangered Species Specialist before the product is used. They will 

arrange for a survey of the proposed use site.” 

Utah Prairie dog: 

“In Utah do not use this product in the range of the Utah Prairie dog.” 

San Joaquin Kit Fox: 

“This pesticide should not be used within 1 mile of active dens of the San Joaquin kit fox in the 

following California counties: Kern, Kings, Fresno San Luis Obispo, Merced, Monterey, Santa 

Barbara, Ventura, Tulare and San Benito. Prior to use contact the California Department of Fish 

and Game for recommendations.” 

Blunt-Nosed Leopard Lizard: 

“This pesticide should not be used in the range of the Blunt-nosed leopard lizard in the following 

California counties: Kern, Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced, and Tulare. Prior to use, contact the 

California Department of Fish and Game for recommendations.” 

Eastern Indigo Snake: 

“Do not use this product in the range of tile Eastern indigo snake in the following states: 

Mississippi. Alabama. South Carolina. Georgia, and Florida.” 

Desert Tortoise: - 

“This pesticide should not be used in the critical habitat of the Beaver Dam slope population of 

the Desert tortoise in Utah. This comprises an area extending from the southwest (acing slope of 
the Beaver Dam Mountains, across Highway 91, west along the Arizona border and 10 mites to 

the Nevada border.” 

The Giant Destroyer (EPA Reg. No. 10551-1) 

The following is based on a partially illegible label. 

DIRECTIONS: Insert fuse in hole at end of cartridge. Light and place lighted end into hole, 

tunnel, or burrow. COVER ALL openings from which gas escapes. Insert ADDITIONAL tubes 

in other holes which may exist. 

HOW TO USE THE GIANT DESTROYER 

1. Find main runway and clear one opening for easy cartridge insertion. Make sure all other 

openings are sealed. 

2. Insert fuse firmly into cartridge end making sure to leave two inches of fuse exposed. 

3. Light fuse and insert cartridge into runway opening. Minimum burning time 5 seconds. 

4. When cartridge begins to smoke, cover opening completely with dirt. 

FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS: 

Use only inside of burrows, never inside of building. 

MOLES (lawns, gulf courses, non-crop areas) – To locate the main runway look for fresh conical 

mounds of dirt. Select the freshest of these. Remove plug and dig in direction of the main 

runway. If lateral to the mound is plugged, either dig past the plug or probe ground around the 

plug to locate a runway. Main runway will be found when probe meets little of no resistance. 

When runway is found, prepare an opening into runway large enough so that cartridge can be 

inserted easily. Collect sufficient dirt and other material for closing hole. Light fuse and insert 

cartridge into hole fuse-end first. Cover cartridge quickly, but take care not to smother it with 

dirt. Quickly close any holes where gas escapes. If your excavations have divided main runway 

into sections, treat each portion. 

POCKET GOPHERS (meadows, reforested areas). Locate fan-shaped mounds with signs of 

recent gopher activity. Find the horseshoe-shaped depression on one side of the mound. To 

locate the main runway, probe ground to 18 inches from mound to the same side is the 

depression... Dig down the main runway taking care not to block it off with dirt. Create an 

opening large enough for easy insertion of the cartridge. Conduct enough dirt and other material 

to close the opening. Light fuse and insert fuse-end first. Immediately cover opening taking care 

not to smother cartridge with loose dirt. Cover any openings where gasses... 

WOODCHUCKS (open fields, non-crop areas...) Locate all burrow entrances. Select one for 

use and cover all other entrances with...and dirt. Light fuse and insert cartridge fuse end first. 

Cover with...and dirt being...smother cartridge with dirt. Consult state game laws before using 

this product for woodchuck control. 
NORWAY RAT (non-crop areas) Use only where burrows are isolated from homes, barnes, and 

all other man made structures. DO NOT USE inside buildings or anywhere where gasses 

could...buildings. Collect plenty of dirt or other materials for closing the burrow openings. 

Treat each burrow opening by lighting fuse and inserting cartridge, fuse end first into hole. 

Make sure hole is large enough for easy insertion before lighting fuse. Cover hole immediately, 

taking care not to smother cartridge with lose dirt. Immediately cover all other openings from 

which gas escapes. Proceed to next closest burrow and treat as above. 

GROUND SQUIRRELS (rangeland) Collect plenty of dirt and other material for closing burrow 

openings. Treat each burrow opening by lighting fuse and inserting cartridge fuse end first into 

hole. (Make sure ...large enough for easy insertion before lighting fuse.)... 

SKUNKS...KANSAS: Need wildlife permit (see insert). 

For larger animals or longer runways, use more than one cartridge.